iTOO Marks 11 Years of Outstanding Specialty Services and Impactful Collaborations

Johannesburg – This month marks the 11th anniversary of iTOO Special Risks, a notable occasion that signifies more than just a celebration.

The company sees this moment as an opportunity to reflect on its journey thus far, both in its business operations and the larger insurance industry, highlighting the significance of partnerships and collaboration in building a more resilient, trustworthy, and future-ready sector.

Since its inception, iTOO has thrived on the belief that specialty insurance prospers through shared knowledge, strong relationships, and a commitment to collective action.

This core philosophy still defines the company’s identity today. Tovè Sithole, Head of Talent and Brand at iTOO, stated, “Our mission is clear: ‘Together we conquer risk to unleash potential.’ As we celebrate 11 years, we reinforce our belief that one plus one equals 11. Collaboration is woven into our DNA.”

A shifting risk landscape

Over the past decade, South African companies have navigated an increasingly complex risk environment, from climate change impacts and infrastructure failures to the rapid emergence of cyber threats and the transition to renewable energy.

These changes underscore the essential role specialty insurance plays in promoting economic stability and unlocking fresh opportunities.

Sithole pointed out that the industry has not adequately conveyed its value.

“Insurance is a crucial element of the economy,” she stated on Wednesday, 5 August 2026.

“Without insurance, renewable energy projects wouldn’t secure funding, businesses would struggle to rebound from setbacks, and entrepreneurs would hesitate to take risks that propel growth.

“We must elevate market education and rebuild trust in the industry.”

Trust is the cornerstone of every successful partnership, whether it involves insurers and clients, brokers, or the wider ecosystem of reinsurers, regulators, service providers, and industry stakeholders.

The strength of partnerships

iTOO’s journey over the past 11 years has demonstrated that effective collaboration is not only a strategic asset but essential for creating a sustainable, forward-looking insurance sector. Sithole believes now is the perfect time to renew our focus on partnership.

“As a collective industry, we face numerous challenges,” she remarked.

“However, by leveraging our resources—data and experience—and democratizing them responsibly, we can create shared value and restore confidence in the insurance sector.”

This commitment to collective progress is evident in iTOO’s ability to bring people together.

Through CEO roundtables, industry unconferences, and collaborations with organizations like the Insurance Institute of Gauteng, iTOO has fostered discussions among leaders about resilience, trust, and the future of insurance.

But, as Sithole emphasizes, dialogue alone is not enough.

“The success of these conversations will hinge on our actions as an industry. Collaboration must lead to concrete outcomes,” she declared.

Defining meaningful collaboration

“At iTOO, we view our employees not as resources, but as sources. When we invest in our people, they will take exceptional care of our clients,” Sithole clarified.

“Partnerships start internally, rooted within our culture, before reaching out to industry groups or competitors.”

For iTOO, a successful partnership relies on shared values, a common vision, and a commitment to measurable outcomes.

It entails understanding entire ecosystems—whether as an insurance partner protecting the ultimate human endeavor, or providing solutions for emerging entrepreneurs, and creating strategies that enhance resilience rather than simply maintaining the status quo.

A culture that fosters collaboration

The values at iTOO have been pivotal to its development over the past 11 years.

Care, expertise, a drive for progress, and integrity form the foundation of the organization’s culture and guide its relationships with brokers, clients, and partners.

These values have established iTOO as a preferred destination for UMAs and entrepreneurs seeking to collaborate with a leader in specialty insurance.

“Whether partnering with a broker or an entrepreneur, we strive to be the go-to choice for partnerships. When they think of cyber, renewable energy, or liability, we want them to think of iTOO,” asserted Sithole.

As iTOO expands its footprint, including recent collaborations in East Africa, the company remains committed to unlocking potential across the continent.

iTOO’s 11th anniversary is a celebration of partnership, trust, and collective ambition.

It serves as a reminder that specialty insurance is most effective when collaboration is prioritized, knowledge and expertise are shared wisely, and the industry comes together to foster resilience and societal benefit.

“Individually, you may go fast, but collectively, we can go far. The greatest opportunities lie ahead if we choose to collaborate,” concluded Sithole.